Public records

Public records in Tennessee

Last reviewed October 7, 2026. Statute: Tenn. Code Ann. 10-7-503.

Residents only: Tennessee only grants public records rights to its residents. Include the residency statement below or the agency may legally refuse your request.

Tennessee limits public records rights to state citizens. State in your request that you are a Tennessee resident.

Public records law in Tennessee

Law: Tennessee Public Records Act
Citation: Tenn. Code Ann. 10-7-503
Response deadline: Records must be made available promptly. If that is not practicable, within 7 business days the custodian must produce them, deny in writing with the basis, or state in writing how long it will take (T.C.A. 10-7-503(a)(2)(B)). IMPORTANT: only Tennessee citizens have the right to request records; agencies may refuse non-residents.

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